Vasant Panchami this year was particularly noteworthy since Republic Day’s celebratory fervor and the religious fervor of the day honoring Goddess Saraswati came together. With hands clasped in prayer, members of the Prabha Khaitan Foundation worshipped Devi Saraswati, the goddess who represents learning, music, art, and culture.

Prabha Khaitan Foundation celebrated Saraswati Puja at their office in Bhavanipur.

The Prabha Khaitan Foundation has always had great enthusiasm to honor the goddess who represents the strength of wisdom and scholarship. On this very momentous day in the life of every Indian, it was a wonderful opportunity for an organization dedicated to the development of literature and culture to ask for heavenly blessings for all of its endeavors.

Two legendary figures from the fields of literature and music graced the Saraswati Puja location on this auspicious Vasant Panchami day. Geetanjali Shree, winner of the International Booker Prize, and Rashid Khan, recipient of the Padma Bhushan, were present. Ustaad Rashid Khan, a maestro of music, performed a heartfelt bhajan recital on the beautifully adorned garden stage of the Prabha Khaitan Foundation in Bhavanipur, elevating the divinity of the moment.

It was indeed a divine coincidence that marked the confluence of two pillars of art and culture.

Prominent guests of Kolkata gathered at the puja mandap to join in the festivities. Prabha Khaitan Foundation Executive Trustee Anindita Chatterjee was also present on the occasion. Post-puja and flower offering to the goddess, prasaad were given to the guests followed by sumptuous bhog.

Priyanka Dutta